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Let's "Talk" About Aphasia

Aphasia is a word that you might not hear very much unless you or a family member are affected by this disorder. You can learn more on the Mayo Clinic website http://mayocl.in/1LRdio6. Aphasia affects a person’s way of communicating both verbally and in written language. It often follows a stroke but can also be a result of a brain tumor or other neurological disease like MS. While a person with Aphasia might not be able to communicate well, it does not affect their intellect, so there is no need to talk-down, or talk too loud, to a person with Aphasia. To learn more about this disorder please read the Mayo website and become aware of this communication problem that many people share. When you encounter a person who does not communicate effectively realize that they are probably as frustrated as you are.

The National Aphasia Association (NAA) has a list of books on their website that were written by people with Aphasia (and their caregivers) which explore this disorder first hand. Here is information about the books they suggest, https://www.aphasia.org/aphasia_resources/books/ During the month of June, please get to know about Aphasia and how it affects your friends, neighbors and family members.

I am tagging Mayo Connect members who have discussed their Aphasia. We would enjoy hearing from you with an update as to how you are doing and what has helped you (or frustrated you) as you deal with Aphasia. @mkf1@gremeika@marieelise@KMH
Teresa

Hello All: A few years ago I knew what Aphasia was all about – I had a paralyzed vocal cord and also a Parkinson’s diagnosis. I had a lot of “word-problems.” Some of you know all about that – your words can become garbled – if they come out at all. Sometimes, it is difficult even understanding the words of others. How frustrating not to be able to communicate!

Aphasia can be caused by many factors including stroke, brain aneurysms, neurological problems like MS, and the list goes on.
As a result of my history – I became a follower of the National Aphasia Associations’ website. This month I received an email blast that I wanted to share with you, https://www.aphasia.org/stories/invisible-effects-aphasia/.

Here the author of a book, A Stitch of Time, shares some ideas of what it is like when her world became “Quiet.”
Would love to hear your thoughts and comments about your own experiences with speech problems – whatever their origin. Teresa